Substance dependency/ abuse is defined according to an undefined impact substances has on a person’s life or the lives of significance others. It is the use of any substance for mood altering purposes. It is the use or abuse of prescription or over the counter drugs for purposes other than those for which they are indicated/ in a manner/ in quantities other than directed. The extent of usage can fall into the following categories on the continuum, new case; moderate new case; heavy new problem case; heavy use moderate problem; heavy use serious problem and dependency life & health problem.

There are different ways that drugs can be administrated and that is through inhalation, oral consumption, injections, intravenous intake, subcutaneous intake, and intranasal intake. These substances are absorbed and distributed through the blood stream and this result in the feelings of intoxication and elation.

The different classifications and their impact include:
• Sedatives: Produce a calming and tranquilizing effect on the body and lead to impaired speech, concentration and mobility. Examples are alcohol & alcoholic beverages and prescription drugs as Rohypnol.
• Stimulants: these accelerate the body’s heart rate and levels of blood pressure, resulting in improved energy. Examples are Cocaine and ecstasy.
• Hallucinogens: chemically affects neurological functioning and lead to changes in behavior and perception. An example is Lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD).
• Depressants: these decelerate your body’s heart rate and levels of blood pressure which results in the relaxation of the body. An example is Marijuana/Dagga/Weed.
• Narcotics: usually found in prescriptive medication, alleviates psychological pain in addition to physical pain. An example is Heroin.

Substance abuse can play a key role in mediating sexual risk behavior particularly as far as transmission of HIV is concerned and other sexually transmitted diseases. Both man and women are affected by substance abuse.
South Africa as a country is continuously dealing with the problem of substance abuse and government has released the National Drug Master Plan that acts as a directory of policies and programmes in the fight and attempts to control substance abuse.

According to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Service Administration between 70% & 75% of substance abusers are employed, so the workplace serves a good opportunity to address the problem. Through the variety of employee assistance programmes, an organisation can assists its employees since the problem has an effect on the organisation.

The role of Line managers has evolved from a directive function to a more supportive function, where they are expected to be adequately trained to deal with employee substance abuse issues. This is the role a supervisor in the current work environment should take of strengthening employee relations and fostering productive working relations.
Prevention could include the having and finding a purpose in life; engagement in constructive activities so as not to become idle; avoidance of contact with drug users. Further an individual can become part of a range of program that is offered by their organisation. Counseling may be an option depending on the extent of the addiction. A number of after-care facilities are offered to the addicted employees via their medical aid. 

Sources:

• Ally, S. 2009. Substance dependency and abuse within the workplace: A case study exploring supervisor’s experiences and perceptions of employee’s substance dependence and abuse. November. University of KwaZulu Natal-Howard College.
• Gopal, D. & Collings, S.J. 2012. Psychosocial influences on substance abuse in a sample of South African Youth: A qualitative analysis. Journal of Psychological in Africa. Volume 22(4), 656-662.
• Hoosen, S. Substance Abuse treatment and Rehabilitation programmes in South Africa: Implications for Social Policy.
• Phillip, J.L. 2008. A qualitative understanding of the socio-cultural and situational context of substance abuse and sexual risk-taking behaviors in women. Master of Public Health. University of KwaZulu Natal

Did you know that the UKZN Medical Aid Scheme offers rehabilitation assistance for drug & alcohol abuse? call the Toll free number for more information 0860 11-33 22 

Do you need support and assistance with  problems with Substance Dependency/Abuse? Click here.